Non-profit agencies residing within 15 miles of Calumet, Fond du Lac, Outagamie and Winnebago counties are eligible to apply. Up to $500 can be awarded for purchase of native forbs, shrubs, trees, or seeds to enhance the environment and educate the public on the importance of native landscaping in creating a healthy ecosystem. Past projects have included the development of rain gardens, prairies, pollinator gardens for butterflies and bees, as well as landscaping projects creating bird habitat.

While Feb. 1 is the deadline, it is not too early to begin developing your landscape project. "For one," points out grant chair, Cheryl Root, "pictures need to be taken of areas to be developed. This is difficult to do with snow on the ground. It is also easier to become inspired as images of flowerbeds in full bloom are a recent memory."

"Another reason for beginning the application process early," added long time grant evaluator and Senior Lecturer Emeritus of Biological Sciences at UW Fox Valley, Joy Perry, "is that it will only seem like minutes pass after the holidays and the Feb. 1 deadline will be here. We also are anxious to receive requests to fund well-developed native landscape projects."

Start planning now. Take advantage of this opportunity to receive funds needed to create a healthier environment for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. Visit http://foxvalleyarea.wildones.org/resources/ for application forms and details.